the 2 only possible answers: s7(25) OR o8(14) (meaning yes OR no, respectively)

To solve the code, you need to know the number positions of each letter in the alphabet. This would help you to understand the number in the parentheses. If you substitute the letter for the numbers, you'll get: s8i r6y e7a e6m n6t e7o r6y d7o?.

now the middle number is tricky. this is where the "small hint" comes into play. (Note: You have a very imaginative mind if you get this middle number pattern) The middle number is the DIFFERENCE of the number of letters in the word from 10 (TEN). So, if it says 8, there are 2 letters in the word. 7=3, 6=4, and so on.

one more note: the 2nd letter corresponds with the lst letter of the word, the 1st letter corresponds with the last letter of the word